Tensions in Manipur escalated on Wednesday following a fatal gunfight between rival Naga militant groups in the Noney district. Three individuals were killed and at least four others sustained injuries during the confrontation at Taodaijang village. The clash involved the Zeliangrong United Front-Jenchui (ZUF-J) and a coalition force comprising the Zeliangrong United Front-Kamson (ZUF-K) and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM).
According to reports, two of the deceased were members of the ZUF-J, an organisation that had previously entered into a cessation of operations agreement with the Union government in 2022. The third fatality was identified as a member of the ZUF-K. The violence is believed to be linked to accusations made by the ZUF-K on November 1, in which they alleged that the ZUF-J had been collaborating with security forces.
The Zeliangrong United Front was established in 2011 to represent the Zeliangrong people, a major Naga community consisting of the Zeme, Liangmai, and Rongmei tribes, and primarily operates within the Tamenglong and Noney districts. Meanwhile, the NSCN-IM remains a prominent pan-Naga armed group advocating for a unified homeland, with an established presence in several northeastern states including Manipur.
In a separate security incident later the same day, suspected militants fired upon passenger vehicles and a goods truck near TM Kasom village in Ukhrul district. The vehicles, traveling from Imphal toward Ukhrul, had been under security escort until reaching Litan, where personnel withdrew. The firing, which reportedly involved sophisticated weaponry and lasted approximately 10 minutes, caused passengers to seek cover. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were sustained during the attack.
The security situation remains fragile in other regions as well. In the Kangpokpi district, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills, has extended a total shutdown until 5 pm on November 6. The group cited grievances regarding the government's failure to take decisive action following the killing of two Kuki-Zo civilians and its perceived lack of progress on a charter of demands.
In response to the mounting violence, the state government has directed security agencies to identify active armed groups—excluding those currently engaged in peace talks—that may be responsible for the recent unrest. Officials have been instructed to monitor these groups, with the government warning that it may declare organisations unlawful if their involvement in anti-civilian violence is proven.
To mitigate these tensions, the Manipur government has ordered the formation of peace committees in every district. These bodies, to be chaired by district magistrates, will include community leaders, civil society representatives, journalists, and retired officials. Their mandate is to facilitate inter-community dialogue, address misinformation, and recommend measures to restore the safe movement of citizens and essential services. These committees are expected to meet at least once every fortnight to report progress to the state home department.
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